Image: The Economic Times

India Launches OALP-XI, Offers 21 Oil and Gas Blocks Covering 80,235 Sq Km

30 March, 2026.Other.7 sources

Key Takeaways

21 blocks offered: 12 onshore, 4 shallow-water, 1 deepwater, 4 ultra-deepwater.
Total area spans roughly 80,235 sq km, with reports also listing 80,228 sq km.
OALP-XI launched to fast-track exploration and bolster India's energy security.

OALP-XI Launched

India launched OALP-XI, offering 21 oil and gas blocks.

“New Delhi India is preparing to offer 21 blocks for oil and natural gas exploration in the next bidding cycle under the Open Acreage Licensing Policy (OALP), according to the Directorate General of Hydrocarbons”

Awaz The Voice

The total area covers approximately 80,235 square kilometers.

Awaz The Voice

The offering includes 12 onland blocks, four shallow water, one deepsea, and four ultra-deep sea blocks.

Expanding India's Energy Frontiers

Puri described the launch as a decisive step aligned with PM Modi's vision.

The move unlocks vast frontiers beneath land and seas.

Devdiscourse

Combined with OALP-X, total area now stands at around 262,817 square kilometres.

Bidding Criteria and Categories

Category-I basins will be evaluated based on revenue share and work programme.

“✕ Home News Analysis Agro-Forestry Art & Culture Technology Economy & Business Education Energy & Extractives Politics Law & Governance Health Science & Environment Social & Gender Sports Transport Urban Development WASH Research LogIn/SignUp Close the sidebar India's Mega Oil and Gas Bid: 21 Blocks up for Grabs India prepares to launch the 11th round of bidding under its Open Acreage Licensing Policy, offering 21 oil and natural gas blocks”

Devdiscourse

Category-II and III will be awarded based on work programme extent.

This ensures both financial returns and development efforts are considered.